Neurocognitive Disorders: Delirium Overview
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Questions and Answers

What is the main focus when caring for a client experiencing delirium?

  • Encouraging high levels of stimuli to stimulate awareness
  • Maintaining their safety and providing reorientation (correct)
  • Avoiding interaction to minimize anxiety
  • Administering high doses of antipsychotics immediately
  • Which statement best describes the approach to communication with a delirious client?

  • Use a calm and clear voice while maintaining a relaxed demeanor (correct)
  • Engage in rapid conversation to keep them alert
  • Respond with anxious energy to reflect urgency
  • Speak in a loud and authoritative voice to command attention
  • When might medications be considered for a client with delirium?

  • As a preventative measure before any symptoms arise
  • If there is agitation and aggression requiring low-dose antipsychotics (correct)
  • When treatment is needed solely to increase their alertness
  • To reverse general confusion without regard to symptoms
  • What setting is recommended for a client experiencing delirium?

    <p>A quiet room with low stimuli to reduce agitation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which medication class is typically used for clients experiencing withdrawal that leads to delirium?

    <p>Benzodiazepines for managing withdrawal symptoms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a key feature of delirium?

    <p>Acute disturbance in cognition</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition is commonly associated with causing delirium in elderly patients?

    <p>Urinary tract infections (UTIs)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does delirium NOT typically cause?

    <p>Long-term cognitive deficits</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical factor in the resolution of delirium?

    <p>Age of the patient</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is delirium distinguished from other neurocognitive disorders?

    <p>It is typically reversible</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following can be considered a predisposing factor for delirium?

    <p>Febrile illnesses</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which symptom is NOT typically associated with delirium?

    <p>Long-term memory loss</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following symptoms is NOT commonly associated with delirium?

    <p>Euphoria</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is best practice in care for clients with neurocognitive disorders, including delirium?

    <p>Promote dignity and quality of life</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a crucial first step in the treatment of delirium?

    <p>Determine and correct the underlying cause</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following groups is at the highest risk for developing delirium?

    <p>Individuals aged 65 and older</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Delirium can cause fluctuations in which aspect of a patient's condition?

    <p>Cognitive awareness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about delirium is true?

    <p>Delirium can manifest as either hyperactivity or apathy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How might delirium affect someone's physical appearance?

    <p>It may cause a flushed face and dilated pupils.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following symptoms best represents altered levels of consciousness in delirium?

    <p>Inability to recall recent events</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Individuals experiencing hallucinations should have what type of attention during an acute delirious episode?

    <p>Constant supervision</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Neurocognitive Disorders Overview

    • Neurocognitive disorders involve significant cognitive or memory deficits representing a notable change in functioning.
    • Changed classification from DSM-IV to DSM-5: from delirium, dementia, and other amnesic disorders to categories of delirium and mild to major neurocognitive disorders.
    • Care focuses on promoting dignity, preserving quality of life, and supporting families and caregivers.

    Delirium Characteristics

    • Delirium is an acute disturbance in cognition, marked by short-term confusion, excitement, disorientation, and clouded consciousness.
    • Duration of delirium can range from hours to days, and it is typically reversible if the underlying cause is identified and treated.

    Causes of Delirium

    • Common predisposing factors include:
      • Infections (e.g., urinary tract infections)
      • High fevers and febrile illnesses
      • Head injuries
      • Low sodium levels
      • Post-operative anesthesia, particularly in elderly patients
    • Age increases risk, particularly for individuals 65 years and older.

    Symptoms of Delirium

    • Symptoms vary but often include:
      • Difficulty sustaining attention; distractibility
      • Disorganized thinking and rambling or irrelevant speech
      • Disorientation to time and place; impaired recent memory
      • Delusions and hallucinations
      • Fluctuating levels of consciousness, from comatose to hyper-vigilant
      • Agitation and restlessness or, conversely, apathy
      • Emotional instability: fear, anger, anxiety
      • Physical symptoms: tachycardia, high blood pressure, flushed face, dilated pupils

    Treatment Approaches for Delirium

    • First step: Identify and treat underlying causes (e.g., infections, electrolyte imbalances).
    • Essential to ensure patient safety, especially during hallucinations.
    • Continuous presence and reassurance are vital; reorient patients about their surroundings.
    • Maintain a calm environment with minimized stimuli.
    • Clear and calm communication is critical.

    Medication Considerations

    • Medications primarily reserved for reversing symptoms:
      • Low-dose antipsychotics may be necessary for agitation and aggression.
      • Benzodiazepines can be used for substance withdrawal.
      • Short-acting medications like Ativan may be utilized for safety.

    Key Takeaway

    • Understanding and addressing delirium is crucial in clinical settings, with recognition of its symptoms, causes, and treatment strategies being essential for effective patient care.

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    Description

    This quiz covers neurocognitive disorders with a focus on delirium. We will discuss the significant cognitive deficits associated with these disorders and the changes made from DSM-IV to DSM-V. Understand the implications of these diagnoses on functioning and memory.

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